Audio manufacturer Origin Acoustics is entering the voice controlled audio systems market with the launch of its Valet amplifier that integrates with Amazon Echo Dot.
It creates an interactive four-zone system featuring eight, 75w channels. Each of the four stereo zones has an RJ45 connection that sends power to the Dot over a Cat5 cable and returns the audio signal to the amplifier via a proprietary balun. The Dot’s audio output allows both music and Alexa’s voice to play through the room’s loudspeakers.
Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio and TuneIn libraries can be accessed and played through the system directly from the Dot. External sources can also be played through the system and the Valet’s muting circuit will mute the source when Alexa is addressed and unmute when the appropriate action is completed. There is a 12-volt trigger for each zone that will allow for additional activation of third party devices upon Alexa being addressed.
The Dot can be ceiling mounted behind a perforated 3-in speaker grille using Origin’s tool-less mounting system. Up to four Dots can be incorporated and will communicate with each other.
Origin will exhibit the amplifier at Cedia 2017, September 7 to 9 in San Diego, USA at stand #5513.